Cracker Barrel Copycat Fried Apples

Craving Comfort? Let's Make Cracker Barrel Fried Apples!
Ever get that hankering for something that tastes like your nan's hug? Honestly, that's how I feel about this cracker barrel fried apples recipe .
It's pure comfort food. This recipe has a sweet, spiced apple flavour. It is perfect for your next cook.
A Taste of Southern Charm
Southern fried apples are an old-school classic. The roots are deep in Southern USA. This recipe is easy peasy to make and takes about 35 minutes total.
It makes about 6 servings, perfect for sharing or, you know, not.
Why You'll Absolutely Love This Recipe
Apples are packed with fibre, a great source of energy. This apple dessert recipe is perfect for a Sunday brunch.
It's also amazing as a side with your roast. What makes this recipe special is the way the apples become soft.
They are infused with cinnamon apples recipe flavour.
Ready to get started? Let's gather our ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Making Cracker Barrel fried apples recipe is surprisingly simple. We're talking proper fried apples recipe easy , a bit like making a crumble but without all the fuss.
Honestly, the ingredients are so basic, you probably have most of them already. Trust me, Cinnamon apples recipe will become your go-to.
Main Ingredients for Apple licious Goodness
- Apples: 6 medium apples (about 900g ). Granny Smiths, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Slice them about ¼ inch thick. No need to be perfect, just get them roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (that's 57g ). Don't skimp! It's what makes them rich and delicious. Real butter.
- Sugar: ½ cup granulated sugar ( 100g ) and ½ cup packed light brown sugar ( 100g ). The brown sugar adds a lovely depth of flavour.
- Spices: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ( 2.5ml ) and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ( 1.25ml ). These are your warming spices that make it feel like Christmas. You can go as Homemade fried apples
- Water: ¼ cup water ( 60ml ).
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon lemon juice ( 15ml ). This adds a little zing and helps to stop the apples from going brown too quickly.
Seasoning Notes: Spicing It Up
For that classic apple dessert recipe , cinnamon and nutmeg are essential. It’s like a hug in a bite! You could add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice if you're feeling fancy.
A splash of vanilla extract at the end would be lovely too, you know, for that extra touch of oomph .
Quick sub if you ain't got those, use Apple skillet recipe .
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
You don't need a ton of fancy gear for this.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A big pan is key. It gives the apples plenty of room to cook without getting overcrowded.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Pretty self explanatory, right?
- Peeler and Corer: Peeling and coring apples can be a pain, but it's worth it. If you don't have a corer, just use a sharp knife.
That's it! Simple, right? Now go get yourself some apples and let's get cooking a nice Apple side dish recipe .
This Cracker Barrel copycat recipe is such a winner for a weeknight dinner, especially if you want something a little sweet but you are not looking for Caramelized apples .
Cooking Method: Bringing Home the Cracker Barrel Magic
Craving that comforting taste of the South? I’m gonna share how to make a super simple Cracker Barrel copycat recipe : Fried apples recipe easy ! Honestly, this dish is like a warm hug in a bowl.
Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick dessert after a long day. Trust me, it's easier than brewing a cup of tea.
Prep Like a Pro
Before you even think about turning on the hob, let's get organised. It's all about that mise en place , innit? First, peel, core, and slice 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work a treat) into about ¼ inch thick slices .
It’s about 900g . Get your 4 tablespoons of butter , ½ cup each of granulated and brown sugar , ½ teaspoon of cinnamon , ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg , ¼ cup of water , and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice all lined up.
Organisation is key, you know? This means no panics later, shouting 'Oi, where's the cinnamon?!'
step-by-step to Apple Perfection
Right, here's how to get your Southern fried apples on!
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat .
- Stir in the sugars and spices . Add ½ cup granulated sugar , ½ cup brown sugar , ½ teaspoon cinnamon , and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg . Cook until the sugar starts to melt a bit, like it’s had a proper good sunbathe.
- Add the apples , tossing them gently to coat.
- Pour in the water and lemon juice . Bring to a simmer, then turn the heat down to low.
- Cover and cook for 15- 20 minutes , stirring now and then. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape. Not mushy like baby food, yeah?
- If the sauce is too thin, take the lid off and let it cook for a few more minutes. Aim for a caramelized apples look, like it’s giving the apples a nice little glaze.
- Serve warm and bask in the glory.
Pro Tips for Extra "Oomph"
Want to take your apple side dish recipe to the next level? Try using a mix of apple types for a more interesting flavour.
Keep an eye on the heat you don't want to burn the sugar, trust me on that. Burnt sugar smells like old socks, not good.
You can whip up a batch of these homemade fried apples the day before and reheat them for a stress free feast.
Want a cinnamon apples recipe ? Add a bit more cinnamon, simples!. It's super easy and it always gets the crowd's approval!
Recipe Notes for the Best Fried Apples Ever
This cracker barrel fried apples recipe is more than just a recipe. It's a trip down memory lane, with that warm, comforting taste.
It's proper lush. You know? Let's get into the nitty gritty, shall we?
Serve Up Some Magic
Plating and presentation can make a huge difference. Honestly, just piling these homemade fried apples onto a plate works. But, if you're feeling fancy, try individual ramekins! Or, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For complementary sides , think pork chops or a roast chicken. A simple green salad balances the sweetness. Drinks wise, a glass of chilled apple cider or even a cuppa tea hits the spot.
Storage Like a Pro
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigeration is key. Pop them in an airtight container. They'll keep for about 3-4 days.
Freezing isn't ideal. The apples can get a bit mushy, know what I mean? But, if you must, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
Reheating is easy peasy. A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle simmer on the stovetop does the trick.
Mix It Up
Want to make it your own? Go for it!
For a dairy-free adaptation , swap the butter for coconut oil. It adds a subtle, tropical twist. sugar-free? Use a sugar substitute; it works a treat.
Seasonal ingredient swaps are fun too. In autumn, add a pinch of allspice or some chopped pecans. Cinnamon apples recipe is timeless, but a dash of nutmeg won't hurt.
Nutrition Basics
Alright, so these caramelized apples are tasty. But, let's keep it real. They're not exactly a health food. Still, apples are a good source of fiber.
Cinnamon has some anti inflammatory properties. Think of it as a treat with a tiny bit of good stuff. It makes for the perfect apple dessert recipe .
This apple side dish recipe is simple. It brings people together. I hope you enjoy making this cracker barrel copycat recipe ! It's as easy as the fried apples recipe easy .
Get stuck in and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best kind of apple to use for this Cracker Barrel fried apples recipe?
For the best results, use a mix of apples! Granny Smiths are tart and hold their shape well, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add sweetness and a softer texture. A blend will give you that lovely, balanced flavour that's just like the ones from Cracker Barrel.
It's a bit like choosing your favourite Beatle, everyone has a preference!
How do I prevent my Cracker Barrel fried apples from getting mushy?
Nobody wants mushy apples! The key is not to overcook them. Keep the heat at medium low, and cook them until they're tender but still have a bit of bite. Think al dente pasta, but with apples! Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can steam the apples instead of frying them.
Can I make this cracker barrel fried apples recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! These fried apples are great for making ahead. Just cook them as directed, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
A little like a reheated Sunday roast, it is still very good!
How should I store leftover Cracker Barrel fried apples?
Store any leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep well for about 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet with a little butter or in the microwave. They're also delicious cold, straight from the fridge if you fancy a quick snack, kind of like a sneaky midnight feast!
Can I adjust the sweetness of this Cracker Barrel fried apples recipe?
Definitely! Taste the apples as they cook and adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar. You can also use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the sugar content for a healthier option, especially if you're watching your waistline like you are preparing for your summer holiday!
What can I serve with these copycat Cracker Barrel fried apples?
These fried apples are incredibly versatile! They're a fantastic side dish with pork chops, ham, or chicken. They also make a delightful topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast. For a simple dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pure comfort food bliss!
Think of it as the perfect addition to any cozy British sunday dinner spread.
Cracker Barrel Copycat Fried Apples

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |